Keep Kenmore affordable and the City Council accountable. Vote NO on Proposition 1. If passed, it will raise Kenmore's property tax rate by over 51% in 2027—costing the average household over $2,000 during the six-year levy period. Worse, this increase will become permanent and the base for further tax increases.

Many Kenmore residents already feel the strain of rising costs. Higher property taxes don’t just affect homeowners. They also lead to increased rents, higher costs for local businesses, and less affordability for everyone, especially those least able to absorb another tax increase. These effects are regressive. This is simply the wrong time for another major tax increase.

Since 2020, Kenmore’s population grew just 1.6%, while City spending increased more than 40% and staffing grew 36%. Now, having exhausted one-time COVID funds and other temporary revenues, the City Council is asking taxpayers to make up the difference.

There’s no guarantee the new taxes will be spent on “Climate and Environmental Stewardship, Affordable Housing, and Human Services.” Prop 1 will allow the City Council to “modify spending priorities and shift funding among authorized uses.” Future Councils may redirect funds without voter approval. Demand accountability. Protect affordability. Vote NO on Prop 1.